Riding Tour with Finnhorses at Santa Claus Village

A Ride Through Lapland’s Heart: Our Review of the Finnhorse Tour at Santa Claus Village

When thinking about a visit to Rovaniemi, the image of snow-covered forests, reindeer, and the elusive Northern Lights often comes to mind. This horseback riding tour with Finnhorses offers a unique way to connect with the pristine nature of Lapland—without the need for riding experience. While we haven’t personally taken this specific tour, based on extensive reviews and detailed descriptions, it’s clear that this experience can be a highlight for many travelers seeking authentic Arctic adventures.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its gentle pace, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors, including families and beginners. The breathtaking scenery—whether winter’s snow or autumn’s fiery foliage—is another notable highlight, offering picture-perfect moments. Add to that the chance to learn about the Finnhorse breed, known for their calm demeanor and cooperation, and you have a genuinely engaging activity.

One minor consideration is the group size—with a maximum of just five travelers, it’s quite intimate, but this might mean booking well in advance, especially during peak season. Still, this small group size can translate into more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

This tour suits families, couples, and adventurers eager for a gentle, scenic ride combined with cozy post-ride treats. If you prefer high-speed rides or Aurora chasing on horseback, this might not be the best fit. But if you want a peaceful, educational, and fun introduction to Lapland’s winter or fall landscapes, it’s a wonderful choice.

Key Points

• Accessible for all: No prior riding experience needed; ideal for beginners and families.
• Authentic Finnish horses: Finnhorses are known for their calm, cooperative nature, making the ride smooth and enjoyable.
• Scenic beauty year-round: Experience colorful forests in autumn, snow-covered trails in winter, and bright sunshine in spring and summer.
• Inclusive and safe: Helmets provided, and safety instructions are thorough; riders over 7 and under 120 kg are welcome.
• Intimate group size: With a maximum of five guests, expect personalized attention.
• Cozy post-ride experience: Warm drinks and cookies by the fire add a charming, communal touch.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary and Setting

This approximately one-hour tour is designed to be relaxed and flexible, with the actual riding lasting around 30-40 minutes depending on weather conditions. The journey begins with a comprehensive safety briefing and introduction to the Finnhorses, which are renowned for their friendliness and patience—traits that shine during the ride. Reviewers like Jenny D emphasize feeling supported and well cared for, even when it’s very cold outside.

The ride itself is tailored to match the least experienced rider in the group, making it suitable even for newcomers. The trail varies with seasons: in winter, you’ll hear the satisfying crunch of snow beneath the hooves and glance up to see snow-bent trees overhead; in autumn, the vibrant foliage provides a spectacular backdrop. A reviewer noted, “Riding a Finnhorse through the snow is an incredible experience in itself,” which perfectly captures the visual appeal.

The Horses and Guides

The Finnhorses are described as calm, adorable, and cooperative, making the experience less intimidating and more enjoyable. Their gentle temperament lends itself well to the slow-paced riding style, emphasizing the natural surroundings over adrenaline rushes. The guides, such as the staff praised by HuseyinYavuz Y, are friendly, knowledgeable, and supportive, ensuring safety and comfort at all times. Many reviews highlight how well-supported even beginners felt, thanks to attentive instruction and caring guides.

Post-Ride Refreshments

After the ride, guests gather around a fire in a cozy hut where they’re offered a warm drink, gingerbread cookies, and marshmallows—perfect for warming up and swapping stories. This communal element, praised by many, fosters a friendly, authentic atmosphere. As Clare B shared, “We had a fabulous ride through the forest in the snow and just as the sun was setting,” and the cozy refreshments made the experience even more memorable.

Practical Details and What to Wear

Since the activity takes place outdoors in sometimes extreme weather, warm clothes, shoes, and gloves are essential. The tour provider supplies a helmet cap and riding helmet, but guests are responsible for bringing suitable attire. On cold days, layered clothing and waterproof boots will keep you comfortable. The tour’s cost of around $125 per person reflects good value for a scenic, guided experience with cozy post-ride treats, especially considering the small group size and personalized attention.

Booking and Flexibility

Booking is typically done 36 days in advance, reflecting high demand, particularly in winter and autumn. The tour is fully cancellable up to 24 hours before, with a full refund, making it a low-risk choice. Weather-dependent, cancellations due to poor weather are handled flexibly, with options for rescheduling or refunds.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic ride that offers a close-up encounter with Lapland’s natural beauty, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for families with children over 7, first-time riders, or anyone looking for a slow, authentic activity away from high-adrenaline pursuits. The cozy post-ride gathering adds a special touch of warmth and camaraderie, making it ideal for travelers who appreciate cultural bonding moments.

Travelers with a keen interest in Finnish horses and their history will also find this tour enriching. Those wanting to combine scenic riding with storytelling and local hospitality will leave with a deeper appreciation for Lapland’s rural traditions.

Final Thoughts

This Finnhorse riding tour at Santa Claus Village balances scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and gentle adventure. The small group size and attentive guides create a personal, relaxed atmosphere, making it accessible for all ages and experience levels. While it may not satisfy adrenaline junkies, it offers a meaningful and photogenic journey through the changing seasons of Lapland.

The post-ride warm drinks and sharing stories foster a genuine connection to the place and its people, elevating this from just a sightseeing activity to a memorable cultural experience. Priced reasonably for its intimacy and quality, it’s a worthwhile addition to any winter or autumn itinerary in Rovaniemi.

In summary, if you’re seeking a peaceful, scenic, and educational adventure wrapped in Finnish hospitality, this tour is a delightful option. Be prepared for memorable views, gentle horses, and a cozy conclusion that will have you smiling long after the ride ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about one hour, with the riding part taking approximately 30 to 40 minutes depending on weather conditions.

Do I need riding experience?
No prior experience is necessary. The tour is designed with slow-paced riding and tailored to the least experienced rider in the group.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly with appropriate outdoor clothing, shoes, and gloves suitable for riding in cold weather. Helmets and helmet caps are provided.

Can children participate?
Yes, but riders must be over 7 years old and under 120 kg (265 pounds) for safety reasons.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers helmet cap, riding helmet, and post-ride refreshments like warm drinks, gingerbread, and marshmallows.

Is the tour suitable in winter and summer?
Absolutely. The scenery adapts with the seasons—snowy landscapes in winter, colorful forests in autumn, and lush greenery in summer.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book around 36 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, as spaces are limited.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour can be canceled or rescheduled if the weather makes riding unsafe. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this horseback riding experience offers an authentic, scenic taste of Lapland’s natural environment, paired with friendly guides and cozy post-ride treats. It’s ideal for those wanting a peaceful connection with nature, gentle adventure, and a touch of Finnish culture—all wrapped up in a small-group, personalized setting.